The Exception, The Guardian, and The Monster

Plat

Esredes: >Around a week later from his last visit, it's about time he made his return with his new information. He approaches the workshop around the afternoon, prepared to make his way in the door as usual.<

Momo

>Inside, he spots Levi working on a new gadget. Levi glances up from his work and smiles brightly.<
Levi: Esredes!! It's been a while! Well, Alise told me you stopped by but I was busy during the time.

Plat

Esredes: Ah, you should've seen what happened then. She 'kicked some people's asses', as you would put it.

Momo

Levi: Ah! That's awesome! >He smiles brightly.< I know she used to fight but she never really practiced until you brought her tonfa back.

Plat

Esredes: >I wonder if you questioned at all how I found it.< She's better than I expected her to be, that's for sure. You've got yourself a good fighter for a friend.

Momo

Levi: >He nods.< She's great. Actually, it's about time I woke her up. She's still sleeping.

Plat

Esredes: Sleeping in this late? Is that something she usually does?

Momo

Levi: She has trouble sleeping sometimes.... so when that happens and she's had a rough night, I let her sleep in.

Plat

Esredes: >No wonder she always acts tired.< I'm sure she's grateful to you for that.

Momo

Levi: >He stands up and places his gadget down.< Do you wanna help me wake her up?

Plat

Esredes: Is she that heavy of a sleeper?

Momo

Levi: Ah, more like she's a dangerous sleeper. >He smiles weakly and starts to head inside, beckoning Esredes to follow him.<

Plat

Esredes: Her dreams must be terrified of her. >All right then, he follows<

Momo

Levi: >He guides Esredes upstairs and into Alise's room. The curtains are closed and she's asleep on the bed, her hands and feet covered in more well fit gauntlets and shoes. Not as sturdy, but for sleep purposes, they get the job done. Her hair is puffy and disheveled, and she's curled up in a small ball.< Aww.... still sleepy...

Plat

Esredes: Does she always sleep like that?

Momo

Levi: Hm? Yeah. I think it's cute. She looks like a sleeping child like that. >Levi walks over and slowly starts to open the curtains, letting the light flow into the room.<

Plat

Esredes: She really does. She better be careful not to let others see her sleep or it'll ruin her deadpan reputation.

Momo

Levi: >He chuckles and moves a bit closer.< Alise.... Aaaaaalise? It's time to wakey wakey?
>Alise remains asleep and unmoving.<

Plat

Esredes: >He too moves closer to her.< Think it's a good idea to poke her?

Momo

Levi: Mmmm.... Usually not. Aaaaaaaalise? >He moves just a bit closer.< Alise? Alise Alise Alise Alsie?
Alise: >She groans a bit and rolls onto her other side.<

Plat

Esredes: Oh, she hears you now. Hold on, let me try. >He leans close to her ear, and whispers in a playful voice< Wake up, little Annalise...

Momo

Alise: >Her eyes shoot open and she sits up quickly, Esredes unfortunately meeting a swift elbow to the face.<  GAH!!! NO!!
Levi: Ah! Alise! >He runs over to Esredes and pulls him back a bit.< Are you alright? Sorry- I should have warned you!

Plat

Esredes: >CRITICAL HIT. FATALITY. CONGRATULATIONS ALISE YOU'VE SAVED KNOCHEN LUST.< >No, but really, he doesn't protest as Levi pulls him away, both his hands immediately covering his face as he lets out a short sound of pain, then groaning< Why do I always get elbowed in the face when I do something for you two... >OR THE CHEST FOR THAT MATTER<

Momo

Levi: Ahh! I'm sorry! Alise, you need to- Alise? >Levi is cut off as he watches her wrap her arms over her head and cower in fear while breathing heavily and quickly.<

Plat

Esredes: >He slowly slides his hands off his face to look at her< Did she have a nightmare???

Momo

Levi: Alise- Alise- it's us! >Levi kneels down by the bed.< It's okay-
Alise: >She spots Levi and slowly moves her hands down. Her eyes drift over to Esredes and her breathing starts to relax. She takes one final deep breath before closing her eyes.< ... I'm sorry.... I'm fine, I'm awake.

Plat

Esredes: What in Erden happened?

Momo

Alise: Nothing. >She replies defensively, but Levi is not one to keep it a secret.<
Levi: It was a nightmare.
Alise: ... ... I'm fine... >She starts to rub her eyes.<

Plat

Esredes: Your elbow suggests otherwise. >He rubs the spot with one hand a bit.<

Momo

Alise: >Her eyes widen and she seems embarrassed.< I'm sorry I... ... I thought I.... I'm sorry.... Levi, can you get him a cloth with ice?
Levi: >He nods and makes his way back downstairs.<

Plat

Esredes: >he sighs< Was it about the lady?

Momo

Alise: ... Thiessen... yeah. I didn't mean to hit you, I really am sorry... >She yawns and starts to move out of bed. Her clothes often cover every bit of her, but her pajames are just a loose shirt and small shorts. It's more noticeable now that there are a few faded rings around her arms and legs, probably when she was being held down at the lab.< Are you okay?

Plat

Esredes: You elbow hard. I'm sure it'll be fine, but that hurt.

Momo

Alise: >She smirks a bit.< You got too close. Levi should have properly warned you.... and don't call me little Annalise. Annalise or Alise will do fine.

Plat

Esredes: All right, fine. Next time it's on him to wake you up.

Momo

Alise: Fair enough. >She turns around and starts to pick up a few pillows she had kicked off during the night. Esredes can see a large scar on her lower back, or whatever her shirt will allow him to see. Within the scar is a small center point, probably where she was injected.< So what brings you over. Any news? Or is it a friendly brawl?

Plat

Esredes: >My god, that thing looks nasty...< Both, actually. I have the answer to what's in the dart and what she injected you with.

Momo

Alise: >She immediately shoots up.< .... what?

Plat

Esredes: Both of them have the same substance. It's the liquid like substance in the center of knochen bone... I believe the proper term is bone marrow. Yours must have been from a knochen with the fire element. And you were right, you must have been very compatible. She uses that giant needle to harvest it from living knochen.

Momo

Alise: >She visibly shivers when he mentions the giant needle. Her hands cross and she shakes her head.< I... I remember it... I remember something like that...

Plat

Esredes: Just now or...?

Momo

Alise: The memories of more specific stuff come and go in dreams... but a big needle sounds familiar... What else did you find out? Where did you find this information?

Plat

Esredes: I got a potion maker to examine the abandoned lab and the files. She figured it out. Even more disturbing, she thinks the lady would try it again if she got ahold of you.

Momo

Alise: >Her face visibly pales and she takes a step back.< .... I... I see.... Esrey, you know I... I can't go back there.

Plat

Esredes: I know you can't... it worries me too. Do you or Levi know how to use those guns you have on display in the shop?

Momo

Alise: Levi does.... he knows how to use them pretty well... >She chuckles a bit before sitting back down in her bed.<

Plat

Esredes: I know from experience it's hard to work around someone with a gun. But... if you saw any signs of strange activity around here, you would know, right?

Momo

Alise: I know... at least, I think I would know...
Levi: >He comes back up with a small cloth with ice on the inside. He hands it over to Esredes.< There ya go, pal. Alise, are you okay?
Alise: I'm fine... thanks.

Plat

Esredes: Ah, thank you. >He does recognize what this does, fortunately, and lightly puts it against his cheek.<

Momo

Alise: >She smiles at the two then stands up.< Alright. Out. I need to change.
Levi: Wha- are you sure you're alright? You don't need to push youself-
Alise: I'm gonna start changing.
Levi: I know but I wanna make sure-
Alise: >She proceeds to start pulling off her shirt.<
Levi: HEY ESREDES LET'S GO!

Plat

Esredes: >welp, okay then, out we go< >I know enough about humans to know you're sensitive about this....<

Momo

Levi: I don't understand how she's so okay with doing that. >He mumbles as they stand outside of her room with the door closed.<
Alise: Y'know, being naked on an operating table for days on end kinda gets rid of the whole self conscious aspect! >She calls out.<

Plat

Esredes: Was she really...?

Momo

Levi: Well... I was tied to a chair for a day or two. So... yeah, I can believe it. >He nods<

Plat

Esredes: Gods, that must've been unpleasant.

Momo

Levi: It was, but we're okay now! >He smiles brightly.<
Alise: >She pops out of the room rather quickly, now fully dressed and with her regular gauntlets and shoes.< Make way, I need to eat lunch.

Plat

Esredes: Well, you'll need it.

Momo

Alise: Psh, I got a good whack at you in my sleep. You'll need lunch. >She chuckles, walking past them and heading downstairs.
Levi: >He smiles and follows her down.< C'mon Esredes!

Plat

Esredes: >He follows them downstairs without another comment, still letting the ice pack stay in its place for now.<

Momo

>Levi sets up lunch for Alise this time. A bowl of stew that was probably made the night before set down before her along with a glass of water and bread. As Alise takes off a gauntlet and reheats her soup, she turns to Esredes.<
Alise: So... what else did you find out?

Plat

Esredes: There's no updates on the investigation, so there's nothing new to be found. Figuring out the mystery substance was this week's big achievement.

Momo

Levi: Mystery substance?
Alise: I was injected with bone marrow....
Levi: ... ew
Alise: I know, right? >She chuckles a bit.< Gross... ... you said you got this from a potionmaker? Where are they?

Plat

Esredes: I haven't spoken to them again. >He quickly glances towards Levi, then back to Alise.<

Momo

Alise: >She notices the gesture and sighs a bit, already knowing the answer.< Well, give them my regards when you see them again.

Plat

Esredes: I'll be sure to do so. They were a big help.

Momo

Levi: They should come over sometime. >He smiles.< But for now, Esredes, do you wanna eat anything?

Plat

Esredes: Oh, I'm fine. I ate before I left.

Momo

Alise: >She finishes reheating the stew before starting to eat.< Mm... Are you sure cause... mmm... Levi can make a mean stew.
Levi: >He slightly blushes and smiles at the comment.< Aw shucks, I just learned it from my mom.

Plat

Esredes: I'm sure. Don't worry about me.

Momo

Alise: Mmkay- >She finishes up her stew rather quickly, drinks down her water, then stands up.< Ahh.... .... Le'ts do this!

Plat

Esredes: Someone's eager to elbow me again.

Momo

Alise: Hey, I wanna brawl. >She smirks and starts to head to the backyard.< Let's go! Let's do this!

Plat

Esredes: All right then. >He looks to Levi as he follows< You want to watch and pick a side to cheer for or stay here?

Momo

Levi: Oh, I'm watching. And I'll cheer for both of you! >Levi follows Esredes as they head into the back. <>It's mostly clear in their backyard, with a small garden on the far right side. Other than that though, it's a perfect space to fight.<

Plat

Esredes: >He observes the space.< So you didn't manage to set the garden on fire after all.

Momo

Alise: Trust me, the garden used to be bigger. >She replies, stretching her limbs out.<

Plat

Esredes: Well at least it's not smaller.

Momo

Alise: That is true. >She finishes stretching out before looking to him.< Alright, I'm ready when you are.

Plat

Esredes: I'm ready. Just try not to touch the spot on my face.

Momo

Alise: >She chuckles and gets into a widen stance while she brings her hands up closer to her head. Her smile disappears as she takes a deep breath, and a focused expression falls over her face.<

Plat

Esredes: >He too seems focused, spreading his legs out a little more.< You can go first.

Momo

Alise: >She makes quick work to take a few steps forward and attempt to jab him in the face.<

Plat

Esredes: >He sees it coming, and steps back out of the way of it, grabbing her arm in the process< What did I just say?

Momo

Alise: You said I could go first. >She attempts to break herself out of his hold.<

Plat

Esredes: I get the feeling you've got an ulterior motive here. >he's smirking though. His grip is tight on your arm. Using his free arm, he's going to try and lightly jab your face back.<

Momo

Alise: >She dodges it, but just barely. Her gauntlets and shoes make her a bit slower than she'd like to be. She once again attempts to break his grip by jabbing at his arm with her free hand.<

Plat

Esredes: >That works almost too well, and it hurt too. He recoils the arm, bringing it back, following up with a punch aimed at her arm. He's making sure not to use too much force on any of these.<

Momo

Alise: >Shes able to block the punch.< Mmm, what's wrong? Didn't stretch before picking a fight?
Levi: GO TEAM! >He yells from the porch.<

Plat

Esredes: I had to come over here, didn't I? That's enough of a stretch. >Try blocking a punch aimed at the side of your abdomen.<

Momo

Alise: >The punch hits and she groans, taking a step back. She quickly regains her composure though and swings her leg around to kick him on his side.<

Plat

Esredes: >He manages to avoid the blunt of the kick, but it still manages to scrape his side as he leaps back. He makes a rush forward with a punch aiming for the head.<

Momo

Alise: >She avoids the punch by ducking down and taking a few steps back, putting some distance between them.< Ha.... You're not too bad.

Plat

Esredes: I try, I suppose. It's usually easier than this. I can barely get a hit on you with those reflexes.

Momo

Alise: What can I say? I had a fine teacher.... Although you should see me when I'm not wearing these ridiculous gloves and shoes. >She steps forward and attempts a jab at his shoulder.<

Plat

Esredes: >He's able to dodge with relative ease.< I like to think my mentors were decent too. >Now it's his turn to try and kick, at your legs.<

Momo

Alise: >She tries to move away, but the weight on her feet prove a bit too much and he gets a good kick in. She winces and attempts another jab at him.<

Plat

Esredes: >That one works, and there's a moment of opening before he steadies himself again. He then jabs at her chest.<

Momo

Alise: >She hasn't recovered from the kick yet, so she was struck and blown back. She grumbles and shakes her head, trying to recompose herself before charging forward and attempting to tackle him.<

Plat

Esredes: >He wasn't prepared for her to try that, and while he attempts to get out of the way, he's not fast enough before tumbling to the ground under her weight.<

Momo

Levi: Ah! G-Go team?!
Alise: >She tackles him to the ground and tries to pin him down.<

Plat

Esredes: >Unfortunately, he's too slippery for that. He's quick to shove you off and scramble to his feet, backing up.<

Momo

Alise: >She realizes the pin won't work so she rolls to get back up as well.< Oof... good one.

Plat

Esredes: Good try, as well. Still up to keep going?

Momo

Alise: Hell yes. >She grins and goes for another swing.<

Plat

==After a few more rounds of this, the two finally agree to stop. Seems they've tired each other out.==
Esredes: >After exhaling a long breath, he looks to Levi< You think either of us won that?

Momo

Levi: ... uh... I think you both won. >He chuckles a bit.< You were both going a little easy on each other to be honest.
Alise: >She lets out a deep sigh and sits down.< Oof... that was fun...

Plat

Esredes: Well, it's probably a matter of safety that we did. She has metal and I have... a bit of an unfair advantage.

Momo

Alise: Metal? Hey, the metal is the disadvantage! These things slow me down, no offense, Levi.
Levi: None taken. >He chuckles a bit.< And, why kind of disadvantage?

Plat

Esredes: But they allow you to hit harder. So it kind of evens out.

Momo

Alise: A good punch is about speed, not just weight. >She sighs.< Ah, we should do that again though next time you come over.

Plat

Esredes: Only if you don't jab my face first.

Momo

Alise: Don't whisper in my ear and we'll make it a deal. >She smirks.<

Plat

Esredes: Consider it made, then. >He pauses a moment.< I must say, though, I'm impressed again by your performance. Maybe next time you can be the only winner, who knows.

Momo

Alise: If I keep up with my exercises, I just might be. >She smiles and stands back up.< But I appreciate the compliment.

Plat

Esredes: Now you have another incentive.

Momo

Alise: To get complimented by you? >She chuckles.<

Plat

Esredes: I meant to win.

Momo

Alise: That's pretty nice too. I'll keep working hard then.

Plat

Esredes: Good. >He looks to Levi.< I suppose our little match is done, then.

Momo

Levi: It is! Congrats you two! You fought in the dirt!
Alise: Thanks Levi. Can you get me some water?
Levi: Right! You too, Esredes?

Plat
Esredes: Water would be nice right about now...
Momo
Levi: Two waters! >He smiles and hobbles off.<
Alise: >She stands back up and starts to pull her hair up.< Mmm... I have a name or two to add to the list you got last time, if you wanted to get those.
Plat
Esredes: Oh, right, that'd be nice. Still haven't found much, I assume?
Momo
Alise: It's only been a week. We haven't taken a trip in a while and you're visiting more frequently.
Plat
Esredes: True. I guess we've already exhausted the easy options.
Momo
Alise: Looks like I'll have to travel soon then. I'll ask where he wants to go next so we can start planning.
Plat
Esredes: But is traveling like that inconvenient for you two?
Momo
Alise: It gets us more clients, it's nice to get away once in a while, and it's just a lot of fun, for Levi anyway.

Plat
Esredes: So it all works out on the positive, then. All right, then maybe you should indeed. I'm sure Levi will get excited.

Momo

Alise: He definitely will. If we find out where we're going ahead of time, and you stop by again, you should head over and say hi to us.

Plat

Esredes: You mean at wherever you're going?

Momo

Alise: Yeah, maybe a change of scenery would be nice.

Plat

Esredes: I agree. It'd be nice to get out of the workshop for a change.

Momo

Alise: You could help me shop for new clothes or something. I always need a second opinion.

Plat

Esredes: Clothes? I'm not sure how helpful I'm going to be at that. I have a limited understanding of how your species views this and that clothing. >I have literally two outfits<

Momo

Alise: >She smiles.< I was joking. You seemed to always wear the same outfit whenever you come over. If we went to shopping, your probably pick out the same stuff for me.

Plat

Esredes: Something tells me it wouldn't suit you as well.

Momo

Alise: Hey, I feel like I can rock a simple black shirt and pants.

Plat

Esredes: But it wouldn't look or feel the same.

Momo

Alise: That wouldn't be too bad.

Plat

Esredes: If you tried to imitate what I wear when humans aren't around, you'd probably get more strange looks.

Momo

Alise: Well if I walked around naked, then yeah. I'd get weird looks.

Plat

Esredes: That's.... not what I meant.

Momo

Alise: That was a joke...cause you're a knochen and- I'll think of a better joke.

Plat

Esredes: I think you're better when you stick to morbid humor.

Momo

Alise: ... I got one. Esredes' new line of fashion. Everything is red, dyed with the blood of his enemies.

Plat

Esredes: >All right, that one makes him smile just a bit.< That's a lot of blood to go through.

Momo

Alise: I'm pretty sure you'd enjoy that though. >She smirks.<

Plat

Esredes: Well, I do make a lot of enemies.

Momo

Levi: >He makes his way back into the room with two glasses of water and a bright smile.< I'm back! >He sets them down for the two.<
Alise: >She takes her glass carefully aand takes a large sip.< Mm- Thanks, Levi.

Plat

Esredes: >He takes his glass, but is noticeably more hesitant, staring down at the water< I take it this is from the well in town?

Momo

Alise: Yeah, but Levi invented some sort of device that purifies it or something.
Levi: OH! You're talking about the Root Power Machine!
Alise: Please tell me that name is a work in process.
Levi: You don't like it?
Alise: No.

Plat

Esredes: The... root power machine? What does that even mean?

Momo

Levi: See, I run the water through a funnel that leads into a series of plants. The roots of these plants actually clean the water in the process. Then it comes out the other side fresher than well water!
Alise: I will admit, it's a decent invention.
Levi: And it's how we can clean our rain water too!

Plat

Esredes: Well, that makes the name make more sense, but it still sounds so... unflattering.

Momo

Alise: I like water purifier.
Levi: Yes but purify sounds more like a magic thing.
Alise: But it isn't.

Plat

Esredes: Not in the way you've figured out, anyhow.

Momo

Levi: I still want no association with magic- except for you, Alise.
Alise: Thanks man.
Levi: I want people to know that this is something they can make themselves, that it's something we can do with no magic involved.

Plat

Esredes: Who knew the plants had it figured out all this time.

Momo

Levi: Exactly! Not only is it more efficient but it's also eco friendly! Don't misunderstand- I love crafting things with metal, but I need to burn a lot of wood and coal to melt things down. It was nice making something without metal for once.

Plat

Esredes: It must be. Too much metal ruins any sense of the natural world.

Momo

Levi: Progress is good, but it needs to be done with moderation.
Alise: And cherry bombs are part of that moderation?
Levi: Cherry bombs are for fun.

Plat

Esredes: What exactly do you find fun in tiny explosives?

Momo

Levi: They're so small and mini, they're more like toys than for actual battle.
Alise: They lit our garden on fire.
Levi: The garden was dry and it caught on fire easily.
Alise:  They are most certainly NOT meant for children.

Plat

Esredes: >Well, if those things set human kids on fire, my job would at least be easier.< What do you even do with those things?

Momo

Levi: Throw them at stuff. >He smiles.< I just think the popping sounds and the small spark are fun. Like mini fireworks.

Plat

Esredes: That sounds like a productive use of time.

Momo

Levi: You have to have a little fun now and then. Right, Alise?
Alise: Hm? Mm- yeah. Fun. Occasionally.

Plat

Esredes: Something tells me Alise prefers the cards.

Momo

Alise: They're easy and they don't require too much physical activity and I always win.
Levi: She always wins...
Alise: I always win.

Plat

Esredes: Poor Levi just isn't good enough to beat her?

Momo

Levi: No! She's just- she's too good!
Alise: >She smiles a bit.<

Plat

Esredes: How unfair. What can you beat her at, then?

Momo

Levi: A smiling contest. I can smile the longest.
Alise: It's true.

Plat

Esredes: I don't doubt you'd beat me too.

Momo

Levi: Aha! Undefeated champion!

Plat

Esredes: So therefore, you'd lose the frowning contest. I wonder which of us would win.

Momo

Alise: >She glances over at Esrey, her monotone expression seeming to harder.< Wanna see?

Plat

Esredes: I think we'd be here all day.

Momo

Alise: Hmm... you're probably right.

Plat

Esredes: >He takes this opportunity to finally take a sip out of his glass, which turns into more of a gulp.< We don't even know which of us is better at hand to hand combat yet. Let's at least determine that first.

Momo

Alise: If you keep letting me recover and train, you're gonna end up regretting it. >She replies, taking another sip from her water.<

Plat

Esredes: What's the alternative?

Momo

Alise: You'll have to come over more often to try and beat me before then.

Plat

Esredes: >He smirks.< Be careful what you wish for.

Momo

Alsie: Hey, I've been looking forward for a challenge. >She smirks back.<
Levi: Ah- now now. You guys shouldn't plan to wrestle too much. What if one of you gets seriously hurt?

Plat

Esredes: I wasn't planning on letting that happen.

Momo

Levi: You never know. Just be careful with the rough housing.
Alise: What are you, my mom?
Levi: Yes I am!

Plat

Esredes: Somehow I doubt that.

Momo
Levi: Well, I feel like a mom, some days.
Alise: He does scold me like my mom.
Plat
Esredes: Great to know he's practicing before he becomes a real one.

Momo 

Levi: >He seems a bit surprised.< I'm gonna be a mom? Awesome!
Alise: You'd probably be a dad according to most people.
Levi: I'd rather be a mom. >He replies quickly, with a smile, but also with the persistence as if being a father were a bad thing.<

Plat 

Esredes: He fits the mother part better anyhow.

Momo 

Levi: >He smiles brightly.< Thank you, Esredes!
Alise: .... he does fit the part well, I can't argue with that.

Plat 

Esredes: He's sensitive and nurturing enough. That's what a mother is supposed to be, right? >Sometimes I'm not entirely sure how humans and their families work.<

Momo 

Alise: Basically. That's how all moms are I think.

Plat 

Esredes: Then it's settled. Congratulations on your new title, Levi.

Momo 

Levi: Thank you! Oh! Speaking of mothers, Alise! We're going to be visiting my mother in a week!
Alise: Hm? Since when?
Levi: I forgot that her birthday is coming up and I always make a trip down to see her.
Alise: Hmm, wouldn't it be better if I stayed behind and guarded the shop?
Levi: Are you sure?
Alise: Yeah, I don't mind. You should spend some time with her for a few days.

Plat 

Esredes: You didn't guard the shop when... you know what, never mind. She's right. >I have a feeling she doesn't want to go.<

Momo 

Levi: Well... I guess it should be alright.
Alise: What- do you think I'm gonna burn the place down?
Levi: No! No! I have complete faith in you. I just don't want you to be alone...
Alise: I won't be alone. I've got the villagers or whatever.

Plat 

Esredes: Do you want to be alone, Levi? >Somehow I doubt she talks to anyone here.<

Momo 

Levi: I'm never a fan of being alone... things are always better with Alise around!
Alise: don't- don't say embarrassing stuff like that.

Plat 

Esredes: >Why do you two have to act so cute.< Oh, affection is so embarrassing, isn't it.

Momo 

Alise: It is. >She pouts a bit<
Levi: Is not! It is completely normal!

Plat 

Esredes: Alise, half of our conversations have been about Levi and the things you think about him. Who is there to even feel embarrassment for.

Momo 

Levi: Really? >He beams with excitement.<
Alise: >Her eyes widen and her face flushes up.< Esredes!

Plat 

Esredes: You both talk about how cool you think the other is when you're alone in a room with me. It's honestly kind of funny compared to hearing something like that.

Momo 

Levi: Alise! You think I'm cool?? >He smiles even more so.<
Alise: >She clutches at her glass of water, not making any eye contact.< Guys lets change the subject.

Plat 

Esredes: All right, all right, if you say so. Levi, I hope your mother enjoys her day.

Momo 

Levi: She will! >He glances back at Alise, still with a bright smile as if he knows now and forever that she cares.<
Alise: Yeah! Have a good time sayhiformeokay?

Plat 

Esredes: >He's wondering what she's going to say about it the moment Levi leaves. He'll have to remember to ask.< Does she still live by the ocean like you were talking about that one time?

Momo 

Levi: Yes! So it's going to be a lot of fun seeing her and the town again! Oh! That reminds me, I'll need to pack up some of the inventions I've been meaning to show her! >He bolts out of the room, stumbling only slightly.<

Plat 

Esredes: >Well, there we go.< So, what's the problem with going with him.

Momo 

Alise: >She seems quiet at first, taking a long deep breath, then looks back towards him.< I do want to go... I just... I don't know how she'd feel about me. He's living with the person who took his leg after all.

Plat 

Esredes: Does she know you took his leg?

Momo 

Alise: I don't know... probably not. But she'd probably find out the day we arrive or something...

Plat 

Esredes: How exactly would she find out?

Momo 

Alise: Levi is a very blunt person. He'll probably state it out loud and go "oh no! But it's okay cause she saved my life!" And smile the same way he always does.

Plat 

Esredes: I guess I don't know him or his mom well enough to know if he would or not. But you don't think you could just ask him not to?

Momo 

Alise: Levi doesn't lie... and I want him to be honest with his mom. Besides, he hasn't gotten the chance to see her since we started living together. I think it would be good to head home on his own and spend time with her. I'll be fine here.

Plat 

Esredes: >He doesn't lie. Gods does he live in a different world than we do.< You're not really going to talk to anybody besides the lady with the vegetables, though, are you.

Momo 

Alise: >Her face starts to turn red again.< I... like my privacy.

Plat 

Esredes: That's what I thought. Well, I'm sure you'll enjoy your week of not having to deal with him and his miniature "toy" explosives. Or affection.

Momo 

Alise: About that- >She frowns.< I'd prefer not to be embarrassed like that again. Levi knows I care, you don't have to say such things outloud...

Plat 

Esredes: You two are hard to read sometimes.

Momo 

Alise: I prefer my monotone and nonchalant appearance. It's easier to stay in control like that.

Plat 

Esredes: I could certainly agree. >It's so easy to make you slip up, though. It's funny.<

Momo 

Alise: >She looks down at her hands, a small look of concern, before taking another deep breath and looking back up at him.< >Don't think about it. You're fine.< Well, now you know what I'm gonna be doing next week. A lot of nothing. Feel free to alleviate me of my boredom.

Plat 

Esredes: I'll see if I have time for it. Perhaps we can think of certain things we could do that we can't do with him around.

Momo 

Alise: Is it bad if my morbid curiosity gets in the way and asks for you to tell any murder stories?

Plat 

Esredes: Well, not what I expected you to ask, but if you think you can handle them.

Momo 

Alise: I think I can. I used to have to solve the occasional murder case back home. It was always interesting seeing the facts on the table and interrogating the accused. Most of em would never talk about what really happened. I'd appreciate an honest criminal.

Plat 

Esredes: Oh no, is the detective going to take me in? >He's back to being playful.<

Momo 

Alise: >She starts to smile again.< Confess now and we might be able to cut you a deal.

Plat 

Esredes: I don't think you want that. You'll never be able to leave the interrogation room. I could go on confessing for hours.

Momo 

Alise: I'd like to see you try. I could sit back all day and listen.

Plat 

Esredes: You must really like murder stories. All right, well, we'll have to start with the one we lured away from the shop. I never told you just how painful I was able to make his death.

Momo 

Alise: Ooh, note to self- >She pretends to write something in an invisible notepad.< Suspect is a sadist.

Plat 

Esredes: Oh come on, I know you want to hear about it too. You were the one who told me to take as long as I wanted.

Momo 

Levi: .... am I interrupting something? >His head peeks through the doorway.< Something... inappropriate?
Alise: >Fuck No WHY!!< >Her face turns a bright red as her whole body tightens up, her hair appearing to puff out a bit.< WH-LEVI-
Levi: If you two are dating or something-
Alise: LEVI NO-

Plat 

Esredes: >--What the fuck< What the hell are you talking about?!

Momo 

Levi: HEY- LOOK- I don't know what "taking as long as you wanted-" or "sadist stuff-"
Alise: LEVI PLEASE STOP- >She clutches onto her glass< IT WAS A JOKE-
Levi: A SEXY JOKE?
Alise: >The glass shatters in her hands.< NO NOT A- NO!

Plat 

Esredes: Okay-- Levi--- Be quiet. >His tone suddenly shifts to one of its more angry tones, though he manages to keep most of the venom out of it.<

Momo 

Levi: O-Okay.... >He seems a bit more meek.< Sorry- I thought- nevermind. I probably walked in at the wrong time...
Alise: >She seems horrified and tense, glancing down at the broken glass.< ... sorry. I overreacted. I shouldn't have yelled.

Plat 

Esredes: >He exhales a sigh. Okay. Can't get mad at him.< You most certainly did. I can assure you she's.... not my type. >She's human.< What happened to Alise having finally made a friend?

Momo 

Levi: I know! I just... I was wondering if that was becoming more or... sorry. I kinda overreacted too. >He smiles weakly.<
Alise: >I have to calm down, I have to calm down.< It's fine... It was just a joke but I assume from an outside stand point... it doesn't matter now. >Take deep breaths, don't get overwhelmed.< And I'm sorry about the glass.

Plat 

Esredes: >Ugh. At least he didn't catch us talking about murder.< Alise, Alise. Are you going to be okay there?

Momo 

Alise: .... No- >She stands up and hurries off to the bathroom< I'll be right back!
Levi: >His eyes widen a bit.< Alise??
Alise: >She shuts the door and locks it.< I'm FINE!

Plat 

Esredes: >Well, this is a disaster. Last time she did that we weren't talking about anything pleasant.< She doesn't happen to have had some kind of traumatic dating experience or something, has she?

Momo 

Levi: What? No! I just think she's overwhelmed... She just locks herself in the bathroom. >He walks over and knocks on the door.< Alise...?
Alise: Give me- Give me two minutes! Okay?

Plat 

Esredes: Just leave her alone, Levi. She won't be in there forever.

Momo 

Levi: I can't... >What if this happens while I'm gone?< >He looks back to Esredes.< .... I know she says she can stay here by herself... but could you be able to look after her for a day or two?

Plat 

Esredes: Is there something you're afraid of happening? >Has she told you Thiessen is looking for you two?<

Momo 

Levi: ... I feel safe around her. And she always seems calm but... she still gets nightmares. Once in a while, when we hang out, she stops and looks around for a minute. It doesn't seem like much but I know it's her making sure that we're safe... That nothing else is gonna come after us. I just don't want her to be alone when she gets worried or anxious.

Plat 

Esredes: >Nightmares, you say. I can relate.< It'd be a stretch to make it here more than once in a couple weeks, but I can try. >I'm still worried about her trying to pay Alise a visit. God, that name makes me feel better about my own.<

Momo 

Levi: >He seems to brighten up.< Really? I'd really appreciate it! I'll sharpen any weapon you bring in next time, free of charge!

Plat 

Esredes: Well, I don't usually have anything besides my sword, but that works.

Momo 

Levi: Thank you! >His chipper mood seems to have returned.< And I can bring you a souvenir back from my home. Mm... I can't bring any fish, it'll go bad... Maybe a seashell- no... you're not a seashell kind of guy. I'll think of something!

Plat 

Esredes: >Hm...< Maybe if you find something unique or interesting to the landscape. I might find that nice.

Momo 

Levi: I'll search for that then! >He nods.<
>Finally, after a few minutes, Alise comes out. She seems a bit pale, but otherwise fine.<
Alise: Heya...

Plat 

Esredes: >He crosses his arms, looking down at her with an expression of slight concern.< Feeling better?

Momo 

Alise: Yeah, yeah... I'm all good. >She takes another deep breath.< I'm sorry for leaving like that.

Plat 

Esredes: You don't have to be. That caught my emotions off-guard too.

Momo 

Alise: >She smiles a bit.< I feel kinda stupid for getting so worked up.
Levi: >He chuckles weakly.< I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions... Can you two forgive me?
Alise: There's nothing to forgive. You didn't do anything wrong.

Plat 

Esredes: >Yes he did.< Only if you make more logical assumptions from now on.

Momo 

Levi: Ehehe... Sorry...
Alise: >She smiles a bit more then looks to the two of them.< ... I'm gonna be fine y'know- if I'm by myself. I'm not a baby.

Plat 

Esredes: If you were, Levi would have to be your mom.

Momo 

Levi: AHA!
Alise: >She snickers a bit.< ... bad. Bad joke.
Levi: That was a good joke!

Plat 

Esredes: >It's better than whatever he was implying before.< Make whatever you want of it, I don't care.

Momo 

Alise: Well, I'm gonna think of it as a bad joke and clean up my mess. Levi, you should pack for your trip. Esredes, you're free to come visit me while he's gone, but don't go out of your way.

Plat 

Esredes: I'll keep that in mind.

Momo 

Levi: Oh! You reminded me I wanted to pack some cherry bombs. >He quickly bursts out of the room again.<
Alise: >Once Levi is gone, her smile disappears and she looks up at Esredes.< ... Can I ask you something?

Plat 

Esredes: >WHY DOES HE NEED TO PACK THOSE....< What is it?

Momo 

Alise: If you... WHEN you get angry or overwhelmed... does anything happen? Like, I dunno... you get scaley or something?

Plat 

Esredes: Assuming I'm in human form? No, can't say I've ever done that without having consciously thought about it first.

Momo 

Alise: .... okay. >Fuck.< That's all I wanted to ask.

Plat 

Esredes: If I did that, it'd probably look something like this. >The skin around one of his cheekbones begins to shift, turning a red and gaining a leathery texture.< Probably not something most people would want to look at.

Momo 

Alise: >Her eyes widen and she points at him.< THAT! Yeah, that thing- whoa that's crazy.... >She walks up to him and looks it over.< .... It's kinda cool.

Plat 

Esredes: Maybe I need to show you what the entire picture looks like next time. I'm sure you'd be even more impressed.

Momo 

Alise: I don't doubt it... >She replies.< >Eh, I'll tell him.< Well, I asked cause I started seeing this- >She pulls off one of her gauntlets. Her hand seems normal with the exception that small white scales are scattered along her knuckles and the back of her hand.< ... tada...?

Plat 

Esredes: >His skin shifts back as he looks over her hand.< Did those... did those just start appearing??

Momo 

Alise: Lower your voice. >She replies, taking another deep breath. The scales start to disappear as she does and she places her gauntlet back on.<  .... I started to notice it whenever I would wake up from a nightmare. There would just be traces, and they'd always leave.... I guess it starts to happen whenever I get flustered or overwhelmed...

Plat 

Esredes: >Oh... thank gods. He lowers his voice as per her request.< You mentioned changes started to happen when she injected you. You must have been under a lot of stress at that moment, too.

Momo 

Alise: Yes... and I don't know if that's connected or not, but.... I just get worried that if I'm too flustered, it won't go away. Like... I'll become one of those uncanny...

Plat 

Esredes: ...So that's what you were leading on about emotional control earlier. Well... you're usually in control of your emotions. You calm down quickly, most of the time, >not so much just now< and your life is relatively quiet. Do you think you'd reach that point?

Momo 

Alise: I don't know... I can't assume too much with these powers. They're unpredictable, with some predictability... if that makes any sense.

Plat 

Esredes: It does. I would've figured it just stopped at the fire.... Just let me know if it gets any worse.

Momo 

Alise: I will... and as far as Levi's concerned, this isn't a problem. If it gets worse, I'll tell him, but for now I call it a minor side effect.

Plat 

Esredes: Let's hope it stays that way. If not, I might know something we could do about it... but I can't be certain it would work out.

Momo 

Alise: You know something? >Her eyes widen.< What is it?

Plat 

Esredes: It's more of a last resort thought. Some knochen have the rare element of being able to manipulate the fluids in your body. Blood, we usually call it. >And yet, somehow nobody confuses it with him.< I've heard conflicting things about what happens if they were to try to use the magic to heal someone with uncanny features. Like I said, I doubt this would get to that point.

Momo 

Alise: I see... well, it's good to keep that in mind, just in case

Plat 

Esredes: Come to think of it, I wonder if it's possible for them to manipulate bone marrow... I doubt it, but I wouldn't know for certain.

Momo 

Alise: ... maybe we should hold off on the idea then. I don't wanna become another experiment then

Plat 

Esredes: Sorry, it's just a hopeful little thought. Like maybe there's a small chance they'd be able to take it away. But I wouldn't do that to you if you'd rather just not think about it.

Momo 

Alise: I'll give it some thought... whoever you recommend, you probably trust... and I trust in your judgement.

Plat 

Esredes: I'd have to ask around the members of the faction that have it first. >If I wasn't satisfied with my lineup, I'd probably want the element for myself.<

Momo 

Alise: and then make sure they're cool with you talking to a human. >She adds on.<

Plat 

Esredes: Exactly. That'd be the bigger issue here.

Momo 

Alise: I doubt any of them will be alright with me. >Especially that shadow guy.< You think any of them would be?

Plat 

Esredes: I don't know. You have to watch the faction members to know who you can or can't trust, and well, I'd rather not let anyone know about us if I don't have to.

Momo 

Alise: Oohh... I'm a secret. >She smirks.< I'm kinda glad. I used to think that you'd show off how you're getting information by manipulating a human or something.

Plat 

Esredes: Oh no, I'm not that stupid. This is most definitely a secret. I'd hate to have and try to explain myself to anyone.

Momo 

Alise: Like how we had to explain ourselves to Levi?

Plat 

Esredes: But worse, most likely.

Momo 

Alise: My poor heart won't be able to handle that then if it's going to be worse.

Plat 

Esredes: Don't worry about it. We're just conducting our own little business here. It's separate from what's going on in there, and I'm keeping it that way. At least, besides all the information you give me on... her.

Momo 

Alise: >She glances away.< ... I'm glad you're being careful and getting a team when you look for her.

Plat 

Esredes: I wouldn't try otherwise. A team is more effective for anything of this nature.

Momo 

Alise: Good... The people who are helping you, do you trust them to know about me?

Plat 

Esredes: ...Not really. I just picked people I know do a good job and won't ask too many questions. Not to say I wouldn't trust them with a lot of things, but... not something that might change my reputation. There's... really only one person I would trust about you.

Momo 

Alise: Really? Can you tell me about them? Or should it be a secret? >Is it the shadow guy? No, I doubt it, they're far too unfriendly.<

Plat 

Esredes: It's an old friend of mine. We've known each other ever since I joined the faction. We used to fight together a lot and encourage each other on to become better soldiers. I don't see her as much anymore, but I still know it that she'd never break my trust. I think she'd be curious to learn what in the world kind of human I would spare, actually.

Momo 

Alise: Hm... If you ever feel like you should tell her, I won't stop you. Y'know, as long as she spares Levi and me as well.

Plat 

Esredes: Well, there's not really a need to. Let's just keep it between us.

Momo 

Alise: Intimate. >She chuckles.< I can understand that though, I'm not really ready to tell Levi all the stuff that happens either.

Plat 

Esredes: You know, I always wondered about that. Are you ever going to tell him?

Momo 

Alise: Someday... for now, I like living a simple life with him.

Plat 

Esredes: I don't think his innocent mind could handle it either.

Momo 

Alise: He's not all that innocent.... >She smirks.< Ah, who am I kidding. He's like a kid.

Plat 

Esredes: >Well, he did assume we were talking about sexual things.< He really is. If he looked like one I wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

Momo 

Alise: Right? His mannerisms are just so similar to a child. ... A good kid though.

Plat 

Esredes: It's kind of funny, when you think about it. You act older and he acts younger.

Momo 

Alise: ... does that make me the mom?

Plat 

Esredes: I... that's a good question. >He pauses for a second, but then thinks of something to add.< Maybe you're the grandmother.

Momo 

Alise: Wha- You'd be the grandma! Or the grandfather. You're way older than the both of us put together.

Plat 

Esredes: I know, but if we're going on mental age, I'm still just exactly as I appear. And it'd be awkward having a grandfather who can only tell murder stories.

Momo 

Alise: Cooler than my grandfather.

Plat 

Esredes: Why, were his boring?

Momo 

Alise: No, he died before I was born. I didn't get to hear any stories.

Plat 

Esredes: Oh... well, then you're right. Something is better than nothing. >He pauses again, his mind dipping into its memory reaches.< At my home, the elders were full of stories. It was one of the most exciting things to experience at that age.

Momo 

Alise: Really? Sounds nice... >She smiles a bit as she recalls something as well.< When I was younger, I grew up on the stories the guards in my neighborhood would tell when they were off duty, or goofing off.

Plat 

Esredes: Hm, that's a less direct way of receiving them. What kind of stories would guards tell you?

Momo 

Alise: Stuff about petty thievery here and there on duty. Off duty though, when they were drunk, they told all the grittier stuff like murder crimes and mysteries they couldn't solve.

Plat 

Esredes: Well that explains it.

Momo 

Alise: Explains what?

Plat 

Esredes: Why you're eager to hear them from me. You've heard them before.

Momo 

Alise: Eh, I get nostalgic.

Plat 

Esredes: Did hearing about mysteries and crimes inspire you to enter the line of work?

Momo 

Alise: I like to think so, especially after I started figuring out some of their mystery cases.

Plat 

Esredes: Wow, promising early on. >So you were inspired by stories too. But you ultimately just... gave it up.< Maybe I should make mine into more of a game. Try to see how much of the story you can puzzle together on your own.

Momo 

Alise: Now that would be fun. >She chuckles.< If you could do that, I think I'm all set for entertainment while Levi is away.

Plat 

Esredes: All right, I'll see what I can do. You're going to be difficult to try and stump.

Momo 

Alise: You just need to think like a detective. Find clues to latch onto, find things that connect to each other. In an unusual situation, there is no such thing as coincidences.

Plat 

Esredes: Meaning I have to figure out how to leave out enough detail so the outcome isn't entirely obvious but can still be pieced together. I'll have to do some thinking on that.

Momo 

Alise: You've got this. If all else fails, just tell me the story.

Plat 

Esredes: All right, fair enough. I think I've stayed long enough, so I'll let you look forward to it happening soon.

Momo 

Alise: I will. You take care of yourself, alright?

Plat 

Esredes: You too. Even though I know you can. And I'm sure Levi does too.

Momo 

Alise: He knows.... but I have to say, it feels pretty good that you two worry about me.

Plat 

Esredes: Oh, is that so?

Momo 

Alise: Yeah... something else I find nostalgic.

Plat 

Esredes: >Hm...< I guess I can understand that. Well, enjoy the alone time you do get. And tell Levi not to let his bags accidentally explode from those bombs.

Momo 

Alise: Trust me, he'll remember the words ringing in his ears while he's on his journey.

Plat 

Esredes: Good. Better they ring from words than from the sudden noise.

Momo 

Alise: Definitely. Alright- >She starts to stretch her limbs out.< I'm gonna help Levi pack.

Plat 

Esredes: He'll probably need your help. See you next time.

Momo 

Alise: I'm waiting in anticipation. >She smirks before heading towards the workshop.<